Made In cookware deserves careful care to maintain its performance and appearance. This guide provides practical, step-by-step instructions for cleaning Made In stainless steel pans and nonstick skillets, using the brand’s recommended tools and common household supplies. Readers will find quick tips, safety cautions, and a buying guide to help choose compatible cleaners and accessories.
Quick Answer
Best practice: use warm water, a mild dish soap, and gentle, nonabrasive tools. For stainless steel, avoid harsh steel wool on the surface; for nonstick, stick to soft sponges and nonmetal scrapers. Dry thoroughly after washing to prevent water spots and mineral buildup.
What You’ll Need
- Made In stainless steel pan cleaning kit
- Made In nonstick skillet cleaning sponge set
- Made In cookware maintenance brush set
- Made In pan care microfiber cloths
- Made In skillet cleaning scraper and scrubber
Before You Start
Ensure the pan is cool before washing to prevent warping. Wash any removable handles or accessories separately if needed. Use warm, not hot, water to avoid thermal shock. For heavy buildup, presoak in warm, soapy water for 10–15 minutes. Never use abrasive cleaners on nonstick coatings as they can scratch and degrade the surface. Dry pans promptly with a microfiber cloth to minimize water spots and rust.
Step-By-Step: How To Clean Made In Pans
- Rinse the pan under warm water to remove loose food particles.
- Apply a small amount of mild dish soap and lather with a soft sponge or the Made In nonstick skillet cleaning sponge set, focusing on any stuck-on residues.
- For stubborn residue, fill with warm soapy water and let soak for 5–10 minutes, then scrub with the Made In skillet cleaning scraper and scrubber.
- For stainless steel pans, scrub in the direction of the grain using a gentle brush from the Made In cookware maintenance brush set to avoid scratches.
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water to remove all soap and debris.
- Dry completely with a Made In pan care microfiber cloths to prevent water spots and mineral buildup.
- Inspect the surface for remaining stains; repeat the appropriate step if needed without applying excessive force.
- For stainless steel, you can apply a thin layer of oil or a dedicated stainless steel cleaner if the surface looks dull after cleaning, then wipe clean with a microfiber cloth.
- Store the pan in a dry area, placing protective covers or soft towels between pots if stacking is necessary.
- If the pan has baked-on oil, cycle through a gentle warm bath with a mild cleaner and repeat the scrub as needed, avoiding any harsh chemicals.
- Regular maintenance after cooking sessions helps extend the cookware’s life and keeps its finish intact.
Troubleshooting
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Fix | Prevention |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stubborn burnt-on food | Insufficient soaking or high heat in prior use | Presoak longer, then scrub with scraper | Preheat gently and use proper oil. |
| Streaks on stainless steel | Hard water minerals; soap residue | Rinse well; buff with microfiber cloth | Dry promptly; consider a vinegar rinse occasionally |
| Nonstick coating looks dull | Abrasive cleaners or scrapers | Switch to nonabrasive sponge and soft scraper | Use only recommended tools |
| Scratches on surface | Metal scrapers or rough scouring | Cease use of metal tools; switch to soft pads | Store properly to avoid contact with other metals |
Common Mistakes
- Using abrasive pads on nonstick surfaces
- Scrubbing in circular motions with hard brushes on stainless steel
- Letting cookware air-dry in humid spaces, promoting rust over time
- Using dishwasher cycles against brand recommendations
Tips For Best Results
- Develop a routine: rinse, soak, wash, rinse, dry after every cook to prevent buildup.
- Keep a dedicated set of cleaning tools for Made In products to avoid cross-contamination with harsh cleaners.
- Always dry thoroughly; moisture promotes mineral staining and corrosion on some finishes.
- For charcoal or stubborn stains on stainless steel, a light paste of baking soda and water can be used with a nonabrasive sponge, then rinsed well.
- Store pans with a protective liner or cloth to prevent scratches when stacking.
Call A Professional
Seek professional service if: the cookware surfaces show deep pitting, significant coating wear on nonstick pans, warped bases after cleaning, or unusual odors after washing. If unsure about the correct cleaner for a specific Made In piece, contact customer support for guidance.
FAQ
Can I put Made In pans in the dishwasher?
Most Made In cookware is best washed by hand to preserve finishes and coatings.
Is it safe to use metal scrubbers on stainless steel?
Minimal light scrubbing is acceptable, but avoid aggressive metal tools that can scratch.
How do I remove scorch marks from stainless steel?
Soak, then scrub with a nonabrasive pad and consider a stainless steel cleaner following the product instructions.
Can I use vinegar or lemon on cookware?
Vinegar and citrus can help with mineral deposits on stainless steel but should be used sparingly and thoroughly rinsed.
Buying Guide
When choosing cleaning tools and maintenance products for Made In pans, consider size, material compatibility, and the type of finish. A balanced kit with a cleaning sponge set, a maintenance brush set, microfiber cloths, a scraper, and dedicated pan care products helps cover routine cleaning and occasional deep cleaning. Look for corrosion-resistant materials, nonabrasive textures, and compatibility with both stainless steel and nonstick surfaces. Consider whether you prefer a compact kit for small kitchens or a comprehensive set for frequent cooks.
Buying Factors To Consider
- Size and variety: A kit with multiple sponge sizes and brushes accommodates different pan sizes and tight corners.
- Noise level: Gentle brushes and soft scrubbers minimize noise during cleaning, enhancing user experience in shared spaces.
- Energy efficiency: Not applicable to cleaning tools; focus is on durability and ease of use.
- Controls and maintenance: Look for labeled tools designed for Made In cookware to ensure compatibility and safe use.
- Placement and storage: Compact or modular kits fit in standard kitchen drawers; protective padding prevents scratches.